If you’re looking for a dish that embodies cozy, sophisticated comfort in every bite, Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne is about to become your new go-to favorite. Imagine tender chicken and perfectly cooked penne tossed with earthy mushrooms, fresh asparagus, and a luxuriously creamy Parmesan sauce – this meal strikes the perfect balance between impressive and easy, making it just right for both busy weeknights and special gatherings. Every mouthful of this Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne brings out vibrant spring flavors, wrapped in a rich, soulful embrace you’ll want to savor again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne is that it relies on a handful of fresh, flavorful ingredients that each bring something important to the table. From the juicy chicken and hearty mushrooms to the crisp asparagus and indulgent cream, every element plays its part in making this penne pasta a showstopper.
- Penne pasta: The ridged tubes perfectly capture the creamy sauce and hold up beautifully with all the hearty mix-ins.
- Olive oil: Adds a silkiness to the chicken as it sautés and imparts a hint of Mediterranean flair.
- Chicken breast: Lean, protein-packed, and soaks up the flavor of the sauce while remaining juicy and tender.
- Cremini or white mushrooms: Earthy, savory mushrooms create an umami base and add a lovely texture.
- Asparagus: The fresh, snappy bites of asparagus bring color and a gentle, grassy brightness.
- Garlic: Garlic gives the sauce its aromatic, irresistible depth.
- Butter: Just a pat melds with the olive oil for extra richness and flavor.
- Heavy cream: This is where the ‘creamy’ magic happens – creating a luscious, velvety sauce.
- Parmesan cheese: Adds salt, tang, and that unmistakable cheesy silkiness.
- Dried thyme: A touch of thyme brings a subtle woodsy note that pairs beautifully with mushrooms and chicken.
- Salt & pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance every other flavor in this penne.
- Fresh parsley: A sprinkle on top gives your Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne a burst of color and freshness right before serving.
How to Make Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne
Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne until it’s al dente, just how you like it. Be sure to give it a quick stir now and then to keep the pieces from sticking together – and don’t overcook! Drain the pasta and set it aside; you’ll bring it back into the party soon.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
While the pasta simmers away, heat olive oil in a big skillet over medium-high heat. Toss in the chicken pieces and season them with salt and pepper. Let them sizzle until golden and fully cooked through, about 5-6 minutes. Once the chicken is just right, transfer it to a plate and keep it warm.
Step 3: Sauté the Mushrooms and Garlic
In the same skillet, melt the butter and add your mushrooms. Allow them to brown and release their aroma, about 4 minutes. Next, sprinkle in the garlic and cook for another minute – you’ll smell that incredible savory scent rising up!
Step 4: Cook the Asparagus
Add the asparagus pieces to the skillet with the mushroom-garlic mixture. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until they’re bright green and just tender – you want them to keep some crunch for texture in your Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne.
Step 5: Build the Creamy Sauce
Lower the heat to medium and pour in the heavy cream. Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together and let it simmer gently for 2-3 minutes, so the sauce thickens ever so slightly. The smell at this point is heavenly!
Step 6: Combine and Serve
Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet, followed by the drained penne. Give it a good toss so every piece is coated in the creamy, cheesy sauce. Cook everything together for another minute or two. Your Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne is ready – just garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.
How to Serve Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley is classic, but you can add extra finesse with delicate Parmesan shavings or a twist of cracked black pepper on top. This finishing touch lifts the flavors and makes your Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne shine, whether you’re serving guests or just treating yourself.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed in a simple vinaigrette or a slice of warm, crusty bread to soak up any extra sauce. For a spring-inspired meal, steam or roast a medley of seasonal vegetables alongside your penne to round things out with even more bright flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne in wide, shallow pasta bowls for a restaurant-style effect, or pile it high on a platter and let everyone help themselves family-style. For an elegant touch, twirl individual nests of pasta with tongs and top each with extra mushrooms and herbs.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers (lucky you!), simply transfer your Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne to an airtight container. It’ll keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, and the flavors will deepen as they meld together.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish if you want to save a batch for later. Make sure it’s completely cool before portioning into freezer-safe containers. While the creamy sauce may separate a little when thawed, a quick stir while reheating usually brings it back together.
Reheating
For best results, gently reheat Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce as needed. Microwaving works in a pinch, but give it a stir midway to ensure even heating.
FAQs
Can I use a different pasta shape for this recipe?
Absolutely! While penne does a great job soaking up the creamy sauce, you can easily swap it for rigatoni, fusilli, or even fettuccine depending on what you have in your pantry.
What can I use instead of asparagus if it’s not in season?
Broccoli florets or fresh spinach are both excellent stand-ins. They provide a similar pop of green and absorb the flavors of the sauce well, ensuring your Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne stays vibrant and tasty year-round.
How can I make this dish lighter?
If you want a lighter version, simply replace the heavy cream with half-and-half or a light cream. The sauce will be slightly less rich but still wonderfully creamy and indulgent.
Is there a vegetarian way to prepare this dish?
Definitely! Just omit the chicken and try adding more mushrooms or even some white beans for heartiness. You’ll get all the comforting elements of Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne in a meat-free version.
Can I prepare any parts of the dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can cook the chicken and chop the veggies ahead of time. Store them separately in the fridge so that when you’re ready to cook, dinner comes together in a breeze.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about sharing a plate of homemade Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne with friends or family. Give this recipe a try, and you’ll discover why it’s one I always come back to when I want big flavor with minimal fuss. Enjoy every creamy, savory, veggie-packed bite!
Print
Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in a comforting bowl of Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne, a delicious pasta dish that combines tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and fresh asparagus in a rich and creamy sauce. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a cozy family dinner or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Penne Pasta:
12 oz penne pasta
Olive Oil:
1 tablespoon
Chicken:
1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
Mushrooms:
2 cups sliced cremini or white mushrooms
Asparagus:
1 bunch, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
Garlic:
3 cloves, minced
Butter:
1 tablespoon
Heavy Cream:
1 cup
Parmesan Cheese:
½ cup, grated
Dried Thyme:
½ teaspoon
Salt:
½ teaspoon
Black Pepper:
¼ teaspoon
Parsley:
Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Penne: Cook the penne pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken, season with salt and pepper, and sauté until golden and cooked through.
- Cook the Vegetables: In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté mushrooms until browned. Add garlic, then stir in the asparagus and cook until crisp-tender.
- Make the Creamy Sauce: Reduce heat, pour in heavy cream, add Parmesan, thyme, salt, and pepper. Simmer until slightly thickened.
- Combine and Serve: Add chicken and pasta to the skillet, toss to coat, and cook briefly. Garnish with parsley and serve hot.
Notes
- Substitute broccoli or spinach for asparagus if needed.
- For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
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